Aman Resorts – Amano'i Vietnam

Much like Charlize Theron always wears Dior on the red carpet and Michael Corleone carried out his father’s every wish, we’re a loyal bunch. Hook us up with ABC Kitchen and we will follow you to ABC Cocina. And while we’re always open to a new experience, this thinking definitely applies to hotel brands that do it right, every time. Like Aman. We followed them to the Peloponnese and to Venice, and now, we’re off to Vietnam to check out their latest luxury offering, Amano’i.

As expected, they’ve done it again and not even Amano’i’s remote location in Nui Chua National Park – one of Vietnam’s largest natural conservation sites – could keep us away. In fact, its location on a mountainous point overlooking the turquoise Vinh Hy Bay and the stunning white sands are among the property’s biggest draws. The natural beauty is front and center as soon as you enter the resort’s Central Pavilion. Inspired by a traditional Vietnamese communal hall (and it is quite the gathering place), you’ll find the restaurant, bar, a quaint library, and a small boutique, plus an oversized terrace with coastline vistas so spectacular that they’ll have to drag you away for check-in. But trust us, the views from the 31 hillside pavilions and five Aman villas are just as stunning. All of the pavilions are identical in size and layout, but some have private swimming pools. They’re a blend of contemporary, streamlined design and Vietnamese styling, like pitched roofs and slatted doors. Meanwhile, the villas consist of separate freestanding bedroom, living, and dining pavilions, and come complete with a live-in housekeeper and cook. No need to leave your private swimming pool just to eat.

There are two additional swimming pools on the property, one on a clifftop with, again, breathtaking views (we never tire of saying that), and one at the beach club. Set right on the sands overlooking Vinh Hy Bay with granite cliffs rising up behind it, the beach club is a secluded spot for lounging, dining, snorkeling, and kayaking. And in true Aman fashion, the spa here is a destination in its own right. You’ll find five treatment rooms, two hydrotherapy suites, a pilates studio, and a yoga pavilion. Our favorite spot: the relaxation terraces overlooking a lotus blossom-filled lake where you can take in the rolling emerald hills before surrendering to your masseuse’s capable hands during a Vietnamese-inspired treatment. Our loyalty obviously extends to lemongrass-infused clay body wraps, too.